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Mr. James Irvin Baker “Buddy” former mayor of Kenly passed away at his residence in Kenly, NC on Friday morning July 16, 2021. Buddy was the only son born to the late Rainey and Sallie Baker. He was born August 13, 1947 in Wilson County, NC. 
Buddy was preceded in death by his parents Rainey and Sallie Baker, son; J. Karl Baker, three sisters; Ann Woodard, Faye Warren and Brenda Davis.
Buddy attended school in Kenly and was a member of the “Class of 1965” from Kenly High School. Mr. Baker joined the US Army where he served honorably. Upon his completion of his military service he became a mechanic. His hobby was working on computers, which brought him much enjoyment. Buddy served the community of Kenly as Mayor from 1991 – 1993 and as a member of Kenly EMS.
Buddy is survived by his wife of 53 years Ute Baker of the home, one daughter; Nancy Wheeler (Robbie) of Princeton, NC., one beloved grandson Jared Wheeler of Princeton, NC. He spent many hours of quality time with Jared whom he loved dearly. Buddy will be missed by many other relatives and friends. 

Final arrangements for Mr. James Irvin “Buddy” Baker 
Graveside Memorial Service     "Celebration of Life"     Kenly Cemetery 610 W. 2nd St. Kenly, NC
Date/Time  Saturday August 14, 2021 @ 1:00pm


Click on the Add Comments Line below to leave messages for the family of James Irvin “Buddy” Baker.

                                                                                                    Guest Book

Family or Deceased Name: James Baker
Your Name: Robert Harris
Email: rh1022@protonmail.com
Message: Kenly EMS will again ride through the gates of heaven. All will one day be together. God Bless.
Date: 25072023

Family or Deceased Name: James Baker
Your Name: Brenda Hall
Email: brenda.hall@gersonandgerson.com
Message: I am so sorry for your loss thinking of you .
Date: 7-21-21

Family or Deceased Name: James Baker
Your Name: Patty Addison
Email: addisonpatty5@gmail.com
Message: Ute and Nancy, so sorry for your loss. You are in my thoughts and prayers. Much love
Date: 071821

Family or Deceased Name: James Baker
Your Name: Leigh Hinnant Letchworth
Email: elizabeth@accrestoration.com
Message: I’m so very sorry to hear about his passing. I have many memories at EMS with him. I learned a lot from both him and Karl. Prayers for your family.
Date: 07172021

Family or Deceased Name: James Baker
Your Name: Barbara jean
Email: bjm523@gmail.com
Message: James I always remember you , because you taught me how two-step, you and Ute were my friends in Kenly , I loved eating breakfast at Patrick’s for many years, James you will be miss as icon from Kenly, and too ute and ready of the family May you confront in knowing that he is no longer suffering with pain here on this earth,
Date: 7152021

Family or Deceased Name: James Baker
Your Name: Sidney Murray Barnes
Email: Ladybug2763@yahoo.com
Message: Prayers for the family. My Ma moved across the street from James and his family when I was little . Lots of memories growing up there on Alford Ave, our little neighborhood was more like family than neighbors. RIP. Forever missed
Date: 7172021

Family or Deceased Name: James Baker
Your Name: Charlie Edwards
Email: cbedwards71@gmail.com
Message: Buddy , Thank you, love all the Ems Experience You Showed me. Your calmliness in the face of adversity inspired me. I never had another duty partner after Carl . It just wasnt ever the same again. The community owes you a parade you cared and didnt have a verbal fliter . Its what i loved so much about you. I m so sorry I'm not there to wish you fairwell what you both thought was invaluable.
Blessed Are The Peacemakers For They Shall Be Called The Children Of God.
Matthew 5 : 9


Family or Deceased Name: James Baker
Your Name: Jo Ann Martin
Email: martinbird60@gmail.com
Message: Ute and family - you have my heartfelt sympathy for your loss. Remember - HEAVEN is also a healing. Love and prayers for you all.
Date: 07/17/2021

Family or Deceased Name: James Baker "Buddy"
Your Name: Lori Lucas
Email: jh511hh99@gmail.com
Message: James you will be missed by many! So sad to hear this news. Prayers for peace and comfort for the family. Please give Karl a big hug in heaven for me!


Family or Deceased Name: James Baker “Buddy”
Your Name: Terry Baker
Email: bak028@gmail.com
Message: James Baker “Buddy” was a member of the Kenly rescue squad I believe in the 1980’s until.. along with his son Karl Baker who was also a rescue squad member.
James you will be missed, you’re with your son Karl and family in heaven. You are loved by many.
Date: 71721

Family or Deceased Name: James Irving (Buddy) Baker
Your Name: Gail Fleck Burgess
Email: hummingbirdjgb@gmail.com
Message: I am so sorry for your loss. Although he is finally pain free it is so hard to lose a loved one. He will surely be missed by everyone who knew and loved him.
Date: July 16, 2021

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